Mainstay Marine Solutions has been awarded a contract from STS Defence to build, fabricate and outfit the integrated communications masts for the British Royal Navy’s first three Type 26, City Class frigates.

Over a five-year programme, Wales-based Mainstay will manufacture, assemble and complete the outfitting of six masts for the first three ships. The Type 26 Frigate will replace the current type 23 anti-submarine warfare frigates.

Stewart Graves, managing director, commented: ‘’Mainstay is delighted to be involved in the project of such national importance. It is a great endorsement of Mainstay and its prospects for future growth and development.”

The workboats builders and designers have two vessels currently in-build, including; an 11m self-righting RIB for the UK’s new polar research vessel, the Sir David Attenborough and a 26m monohull for Welsh Government Fisheries Patrol. A 19m catamaran, also for Welsh Fisheries, was delivered to Conwy Harbour at the end of last month.

Mainstay said its maintenance and repair division has also seen major growth in recent months with improved servicing turnaround times as a result of its new 160t boat hoist.